Bronze Hindu Mukhalinga with Cobra – South India
This is a finely cast bronze Hindu Mukhalinga, a symbolic representation of Shiva in his lingam form, featuring a sculpted human face and crowned by a fully opened cobra hood (naga). The cobra shelters the head, a traditional motif signifying divine protection, cosmic energy, and awakening of kundalini. The sculpture includes a small kneeling cow (Nandi) at the base, Shiva’s vahana (mount), placed before a stepped pedestal. The face of Shiva displays: • A sharp crown • Stylized features • Elongated earlobes with ornaments • And the third eye clearly visible on the forehead The sculpture is made of three detachable elements: the head/linga, the cobra hood, and the base. This modular design is typical of ritual pieces that may be used in home altars or temple shrines.
Dimensions: • Height: 22 cm • Width (base): 8.5 cm • Depth (base): 8.5 cm • Total depth (with cobra hood and cow): ~10 cm • Width of the cobra’s hood: 12.5 cm
Inherited
Yes
Hello, this item is a finely cast bronze Hindu Mukhalinga sculpture from South India, featuring a cobra hood (naga) protecting a human-faced linga, symbolizing Lord Shiva. The piece includes traditional iconographic elements: the stylized face of Shiva with sharp crown, elongated earlobes with ornaments, and a clearly defined third eye on the forehead. It also integrates a small figure of Nandi, the kneeling bull mount of Shiva, placed at the base. The sculpture measures approximately 22 cm in height, 8.5 cm in base width, and 12.5 cm across the cobra’s hood, with detachable modular elements for ritual use.
Bronze Mukhalingas of this type are typically dated between the 18th and early 20th centuries, though similar forms can occasionally appear earlier. Authentic examples in this style, especially with complete detachable parts and good preservation, hold strong appeal for both collectors of South Indian bronzes and those interested in ritual art. Based on market comparables and auction results, a piece of this quality would generally command a value between $800 and $1,500 USD.
